Each June, the art world comes together in Basel, Switzerland, for Art Basel. Over the years, various artists from African countries such as Zambia, Ghana, and Zimbabwe have exhibited their work at this prestigious event. Among them is Ghanaian architect and artist Benjamin Sencherey, who presents his mixed-media narratives and Renaissance-inspired creations. His work is showcased alongside other artists who challenge perspectives on history, politics, and public art.
Benjamin Sencherey, an artist originally from Ghana, has received education in the U.S. and Italy. Holding degrees from the University of Central Florida and an Italian institution, he applies his architecture background to produce art that conveys stories.
At Fountain of Youth School, Benjamin directs arts programmes for students nursery to junior high. “In the past three years, I’ve focused on raising funds, expanding programs, and creating opportunities for every child,” he says. Beyond fundraising, he invites guest speakers, starts AI and STEM clubs, and hosts career talks to show that education prepares students for life, not just academics.
Benjamin views painting as a language and a way to preserve stories, expressing emotions, and understand the world. Inspired by his brothers’ constant sketching, he values visual narratives. One notable work combines Renaissance style with modern socio-political themes, depicting women on a horse escaping the harm of illegal mining in Ghana. He replaced an overloaded motorbike he saw with a horse for a timeless aesthetic. The bald figures symbolise cancer from pollution, urging viewers to face harsh realities through classical beauty. Will.i.am was so impressed by the “Bound in Heritage: Researching for Tomorrow” painting that he bought it.
Although Benjamin’s work often engages political themes especially issues affecting Ghana’s current state, he emphasises that inspiration also springs from deeply personal and social sources. “I can’t just wake up and start painting. I need a life experience to move me,” he admits. Looking ahead, he envisions a series that blends historical political movements with modern activism, along with digital art, largescale murals, and even sculpture. “I want to bring art into public spaces where more people can engage with it,” he says.
Technique matters deeply to him, but so does freedom. “I don’t like to restrict myself. I believe God is the greatest artist look at the sky, the mountains and us humans there are no mistakes.” That belief drives his embrace of mixed media oils, acrylics, pastels, and gold pigments layered for depth and texture. He wants his audience not just to see his work, but to feel it and to be moved.
Benjamin’s journey started at Tema International School in Ghana, where inspiration was abundant despite rare visits home. Learning from seniors and global artists, he valued community early on. Now, he mentors students, encouraging them to take risks, challenge norms, and use art for personal expression
Benjamin’s calendar is already bursting with a solo exhibition this summer and his annual “Dirty December” exhibit in Accra. He’s also launching his own architecture practice to integrate art and design into public and private spaces, treating every building as a canvas.
At the centre of it all is faith. “When I paint, I don’t think it’s me,” he smiles. “I always say, ‘God, hold the brush.” It’s this sense of divine partnership that fuels both his boldest strokes and his steadfast commitment to uplift the next generation. Create boldly. Live truthfully. And never forget the beauty in the story you’re telling.
